Gary Lineker's contribution to Match of the Day

That this House pays tribute to the extraordinary career and enduring legacy of Gary Lineker as he retires from his role on Match of the Day; celebrates him not only as one of England’s greatest ever goal scorers and a former England team captain, but as the beating heart of Leicester City FC, the club he has always called home; applauds his unwavering composure, both as a player renowned for his calmness under pressure and as a broadcaster whose clarity and humour became the voice of Saturday nights for millions; acknowledges his immense charitable work, including tireless support for children’s cancer charities, vital donations to the British Red Cross during the covid-19 pandemic, and his critical role in rescuing Leicester City FC from financial ruin in 2002; honours his achievements on the pitch, including the 1986 World Cup Golden Boot and leading England to the semi-finals in 1990; and believes that football fans across the nation will deeply miss his warmth, wit, and wisdom, and wishes him the very best in his well-earned retirement from the show.